Funding received to support Hampshire and Isle of Wight Schools to open their sports facilities
Funding to support schools to open their facilities.
Date: 19 May 2025 Author: Energise Me
Here’s 3 stories from local schools showing the difference that the Opening School Facilities (OSF) programme helped to make.
The OSF programme has been a three-year national initiative, funded by the Department for Education, and delivered by Active Partnerships. It encouraged and supported schools to open up their facilities to local community groups. In the last year, Energise Me has supported 30 schools to access over £275k in funding. Creating active opportunities and open facilities, and upskilling the workforce.
James Reynolds, the PE teacher at Baycroft School, shared how the OSF programme helped bring something new and exciting to the school. They introduced a girls’ gymnastics club for its pupils.
The school opened its doors beyond the school day and offered gymnastics to students who might not usually have the chance to take part. Gymnastics isn’t part of the school’s core PE curriculum. But with support from OSF, James and his team created a safe and welcoming space for pupils to try something different, build confidence, and develop new skills.
At Portsdown Primary School the OSF programme helped create fun, active opportunities for pupils and their families. All outside of the normal school day.
They’ve been able to offer a range of exciting after-school activities. From archery and bowling to a mix of inclusive, active games.
Deputy Headteacher, Darran Cowell, shared how the introduction of these clubs has created a positive ripple effect throughout the school. The clubs have not only provided meaningful opportunities for parents and children to spend quality time together, but have also helped establish clearer, more open lines of communication between families and the school.
The pupils’ and parents’ stories highlighted just how valuable these clubs have become. Not only offering a safe space for children to try something new, but also giving families the opportunity to spend some quality time together.
At Portchester Community School, the OSF programme has helped introduce something a little different. And it’s having a powerful impact.
Thanks to OSF funding and the support from the Hampshire Barbell Club, the school has been able to launch weightlifting classes. Offering students an opportunity to explore a new activity that sits outside the traditional PE curriculum.
These sessions are about more than just building physical strength. For some students, it’s a chance to excel in something they may never have tried otherwise. One pupil has even gone on to compete at the England Age Group Championships! For others, it’s a safe and supportive space to connect, build confidence, and simply feel like they belong.
If you have impactful stories about physical activity projects you’ve run or learnings that may help others working to get communities active, submit a We Can Be Active Win! And let us share and celebrate the work you’ve been doing.
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